Low Foam Surfactant Market Forecasts to 2030 - Global Analysis By Type (Non-ionic, Amphoteric and Cationic), By Application (Home & Personal Care, Textile, Food & Beverage, Manufacturing and Other Applications) and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Low Foam Surfactant Market is accounted for $16.09 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $24.04 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period. A low foam surfactant is a compound used in various industries to reduce the formation of foam during processes such as cleaning and manufacturing. These surfactants possess properties that minimize the creation of bubbles while maintaining effective surface tension reduction and wetting abilities. They are particularly beneficial in applications where excessive foam could interfere with operations or product quality.

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly spending on soaps and detergents in the United States reached approximately USD 85.37 per consumer unit in 2022. This marks a growth of 6% compared to the preceding year.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Rising adoption of low foam surfactants in various industries

The rising adoption of low foam surfactants across various industries serves as a significant driver in the low foam surfactant market. These surfactants are increasingly favored due to their environmentally friendly nature and superior performance characteristics. Industries such as agriculture, textiles, and personal care are transitioning towards low-foam formulations to meet regulatory requirements and address consumer preferences for sustainable products. This trend is propelled by the growing awareness of environmental concerns, driving the demand for eco-friendly solutions in industrial processes.

Restraint:

Higher cost compared to conventional surfactants

The higher cost compared to conventional surfactants poses a significant restraint in the low foam surfactant market. This increased cost can limit adoption rates, particularly among price-sensitive industries. Companies may face challenges in convincing customers to switch to low foam surfactants despite their environmental benefits due to cost considerations. Additionally, higher production costs may affect profit margins for manufacturers, making it essential to explore cost-saving strategies such as optimizing production processes and sourcing more affordable raw materials to remain competitive in the market.

Opportunity:

Growing demand from emerging economies with increasing industrial activities

As emerging economies experience rapid industrialization across various sectors, such as manufacturing, construction, and agriculture, there is a heightened need for effective cleaning and surface treatment agents. Low foam surfactants, with their environmentally friendly and efficient properties, are well-positioned to meet this demand. Capturing these emerging market opportunities can drive substantial growth and expansion for companies operating in the low foam surfactant sector.

Threat:

Competition from traditional surfactants and alternative technologies

Traditional surfactants have an established market presence and lower production costs. Additionally, alternative technologies such as enzyme-based surfactants or silicone-based antifoaming agents offer different performance characteristics and may attract consumers seeking alternatives. This competitive landscape challenges low foam surfactant manufacturers to differentiate their products based on performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness to maintain or gain market share.

Covid-19 Impact:

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the low foam surfactant market, causing disruptions in supply chains, production activities, and demand dynamics. With lockdowns and restrictions affecting manufacturing facilities and consumer spending, the market experienced fluctuations in demand and distribution channels. However, increased hygiene awareness and the surge in demand for cleaning and sanitization products positively influenced the market, mitigating some of the adverse effects of the crisis.

The non-ionic segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The non-ionic segment is projected to dominate during the forecast period due to its versatile properties and compatibility with various formulations. Non-ionic surfactants exhibit excellent stability in a wide range of pH levels and water hardness, making them suitable for diverse applications in industries such as detergents, agrochemicals, and personal care products. Additionally, their low foam characteristics meet the increasing demand for environmentally friendly and high-performance surfactants across global markets, driving their prominence.

The electronics cleaning segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The electronics cleaning segment is anticipated to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to the rising demand for electronic devices coupled with stringent cleanliness standards in electronic manufacturing processes. Low foam surfactants offer effective cleaning solutions for delicate electronic components without leaving residue or causing damage. Additionally, advancements in electronic technologies and increased adoption of smart devices further drive the demand for low foam surfactants in this segment.

Region with largest share:

During the forecast period, Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the low foam surfactant market due to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and increasing consumer awareness regarding environmental sustainability in the region. Additionally, the growing demand for household and personal care products, along with expanding manufacturing activities in countries like China, India, and Japan, will drive the adoption of low foam surfactants. Moreover, favorable government initiatives and investments in research and development further contribute to the region's market leadership.

Region with highest CAGR:

During the forecast period, North America is poised for rapid growth in the low foam surfactant market due to increasing consumer awareness regarding eco-friendly products and stringent regulations promoting sustainable manufacturing practices, which are driving the demand for low foam surfactants. Additionally, the region's robust industrial infrastructure and significant investments in research and development further contribute to market expansion. Moreover, the growing adoption of low-foam surfactants across various industries, including personal care, textiles, and agrochemicals, fuels the market's growth trajectory in North America.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players in Low Foam Surfactant Market include BASF SE, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Akzo Nobel N.V., Ashland Global Holdings Inc., Clariant AG, Croda International Plc, Dow Inc., Ecolab Inc., Evonik Industries AG, Galaxy Surfactants Ltd., Huntsman Corporation, Innospec Inc., Kao Corporation, Lubrizol Corporation, Nouryon, Pilot Chemical Company, Sasol Limited, Solvay S.A. and Stepan Company.

Key Developments:

In April 2022, BASF SE revealed plans to broaden its product line, introducing new formulations like Dehypound M and Dehypound HDG. These advanced nonionic surfactant blends are designed for versatile cleaning and degreasing across multiple soils and applications.

In February 2022, Clariant introduced a range of 100% bio-based surfactants, aligning with the company's commitment to transitioning toward renewable carbon sources. This innovation in bio-based surfactants underscores Clariant's ongoing efforts to expand its sustainable product portfolio on a global scale.

In September 2020, Clariant, a key player in sustainable ingredients and solutions for the Industrial Lubricants Segment, launched an innovative phosphate ester. This new offering delivers exceptional performance and sustainability benefits in metalworking fluid formulations.

Types Covered:

• Non-ionic
• Amphoteric
• Cationic

Applications Covered:

• Home & Personal Care
• Textile
• Food & Beverage
• Manufacturing
• Industrial Cleaning
• Chemicals
• Oil & Gas
• Other Applications

Regions Covered:

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • Italy
  • France
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:

• Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
• Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
• Covers Market data for the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2026, and 2030
• Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
• Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
• Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
• Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
• Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings:

All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

• Company Profiling
  • Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
  • SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
  • Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
  • Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances